Singapore tourism chief Lionel Yeo steps down after six years

Under his leadership, the Singapore tourism sector attained record highs in tourist arrivals and spending receipts – 17.4 million and S$26.8 billion (US$20 billion) respectively – in 2017.

After two three-year terms helming the Singapore Tourism Board (STB), Lionel Yeo will be stepping down on May 31.

Under his leadership, the Singapore tourism sector attained record highs in tourist arrivals and spending receipts – 17.4 million and S$26.8 billion (US$20 billion) respectively – in 2017.

The 45-year-old chief executive was responsible for initiating several notable projects to refresh Singapore’s image such as the Singapore: Inside Out travelling showcase in 2017 and 2015, which put Singapore’s contemporary arts and design scene on the world stage, having exhibited in major cities such as Beijing, London, New York, Tokyo and Sydney.

He has also left his mark in stirring up the tourism sector in the areas of data analytics, technology adoption and business transformation.

Most recently, he contributed towards Singapore’s newest tourism campaign – “Passion Made Possible “ – that is jointly promoted by STB, the Economic Development Board and Ministry of Communications and Information.

After 22 years in the public sector, with stints in Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI), Ministry of Finance as well as the boards of Sentosa Development Corporation and Mandai Park Holdings, Yeo will be making his move into the private sector.

Melissa Ow, deputy CEO of STB, will be appointed acting CEO in the interim with effect from June 1, until a new chief executive is appointed.